Q1: What is sodium dihydrogen phosphate?
A1: Sodium dihydrogen phosphate, chemical formula is NaH2PO4, also known as sodium hydrogen phosphate monohydrate. It is one of the phosphate compounds and is a white crystalline powder with good solubility in water.
Sodium dihydrogen phosphate is a common food additive used as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, and antioxidant. It can improve the texture and taste of food, extend the shelf life of food, and enhance the color, aroma, and flavor of food. Sodium dihydrogen phosphate is also widely used in medicine, chemical industry, agriculture and other fields.
Q2: How is sodium dihydrogen phosphate used in food processing?
A2: Sodium dihydrogen phosphate is mainly used as an acidity regulator, stabilizer and antioxidant in food processing. Its use depends on the specific needs of food processing and the results to be achieved. Generally, the following methods can be used:
Acidity regulator: Sodium dihydrogen phosphate can be used to adjust the pH value of food and improve the taste and flavor of food. It is often dissolved in food to adjust the pH of the food to achieve the desired acidity.
Stabilizer: Sodium dihydrogen phosphate can stabilize the properties of food and prevent food from layering, precipitation or oxidation during processing. It can be added directly to food and mixed evenly with other ingredients to improve the stability and texture of food.
Antioxidant: Sodium dihydrogen phosphate has antioxidant effects, which can prevent the oxidation of oils in food and extend the shelf life of food. It can be added to foods containing fat or oil to maintain the freshness and quality of the food.
Generally speaking, sodium dihydrogen phosphate is usually used in food processing in the form of solid powder or solution. According to the processing technology and formula requirements of the specific food, it is added to the food in a certain proportion to adjust the acidity, improve the stability and extend the shelf life of the food.